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MAIMONIDES

“One only loves the Holy One blessed be He through the knowledge of Him. This love is commensurate to the knowledge. If the knowledge is little, the love will be little; and if the knowledge is great, the love will be great. Thus, it is imperative for a person to dedicate himself to understand and contemplate the wisdom and knowledge that inform him of his Creator.” (Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshuvah 10:6)

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The Gate of Unity – Chapter 37

ומעתה יש להבין בענין יחוד דישראל ויעקב בלאה ורחל.

We must now understand the matter of the unifications of Yisrael and Yaakov with Leah and Rachel.[1]

וביאור ענין לאה ורחל ידוע, שזהו ענין מחשבה ודבור

As known, the explanation of the matter of Leah and Rachel is that they are the matter of thought and speech.[2]

This is the matter of the two Heh’s (ה) of the [four letter] name [of G-d,] “Havayah” (י”ה”ו”ה).[3] This is in accordance with what the Zohar states[4] that [in the Song of Songs], “Solomon explains [regarding]two females”, as in the verse,[5] “Come with me from Lebanon [my] bride etc.”

ה’ ראשונה שם הגדולה לאה וה’ אחרונה שם הקטנה רחל כו’

In other words, the first Heh (ה)[of the four letter name of G-d corresponds to,[6]] “The name of the big one was Leah”, whereas the second Heh (ה) [corresponds to,] “the name of the little one was Rachel.”[7]

ותחילה יש להקדים בענין הקול קול יעקב שיש קלה פנימאה דלא משתמע כו’

However, we must first explain the matter of,[8] “The voice is the voice of Yaakov,” for there is an inner unheard voice [and an outer heard voice].[9]

[This is to say,] just as the [physical] voice is composed of the physical qualities of fire, water, and air, so likewise the breath of the heart itself includes the spiritual qualities of fire, water and air.[11]

שהוא בחי’ חסד וגבורה והממוצע שהוא הרוח

These are the aspects of Chessed, Gevurah, and the intermediate quality [of Tiferet] which is the air (or vapor).

דהיינו בחי’ כיווץ והתפשטות שבהבל הרוחני דלב

In other words, [this corresponds to] the aspects of the constriction and spreading forth of the spiritual breath of the heart.

כמו כאשר האדם שמח בלבו אז יש בחי’ אור ההתפשטות בלב, והוא הבל דחסדים

For example, when a person is happy in his heart then there is an aspect of the spreading forth of light [and vitality] in his heart. This is the breath of the Kindnesses (Chassadim).[12]

וכשהוא בעוצב הוא בבחי’ הכיווץ וצמצום, והוא בחי’ הבל דגבורות

In contrast, when he is depressed there is an aspect of constriction and withdrawal. This is the aspect of the breath of Judgments (Gevurot).[13]

והממוצע מחסד וגבורה הוא הבל רוחני ממוצע ממוזג מאמצעות חסד וגבורה

The intermediary between the two, Chessed and Gevurah, is the spiritual breath which is an intermediary composite of both Chessed and Gevurah.[14]

כרוח הממוצע מאש ומים בגשם ההבל

This is like the air [or vapor] (Ruach) of the physical breath which is an intermediary composite between fire and water.

This is likewise true of [the emotions conveyed in] the intermediate voice which contains an admixture of both joy and bitterness or sadness. It is called, “A delightful voice to the soul”; which specifically depends on the proportions of spiritual admixture in the breath of the heart.[17]

Similarly, the spirit of life [and vitality] in the right and left ventricles [of the heart] is in a constant state of “running and returning” (Ratzo V’Shoov) with the heartbeat, as known that this too is in an aspect of constriction and spreading forth.

(However, here the opposite of the above takes place. For, when the life force [and vitality] enters the heart from the brain then the heart contracts to receive it. On the other hand when [the life force] exits, then the heart spreads forth.[18]

לפי שהחיות דוקא רצוא ושוב כו’ וכמבואר בספרי הרפואה)

This is because the vitality is specifically in a manner of “running and returning” etc,[19] as explained in medical books.)

וכל זה נקרא קלא דמשתמע בדבור, שזהו בחי’ רוח הבל הדבור

Now, all of the above is called “The voice that is heard” in speech, i.e. the aspect of the vapor and breath of the speech.

והיינו בחי’ קול ודבור הנזכר בזהר בכמה דוכתי

This is the aspect of the “voice – Kol” and “speech – Diboor” which is mentioned in many places in the Zohar.[20]

In other words, it is the aspect of the drawing forth of the emotions of the heart that come into an aspect of the vapor and breath of the heart, which is composed of the spiritual qualities of fire, water and air, until it reaches the aspect of the voice of speech.

ובחי’ כח הדבור נמשך מנקב החזה דלב כו’ ונקרא רוח ממללא

Now, the aspect of the power of speech is drawn from the cavity of the lungs in the cardiovascular system[22], and is called[23] “the speaking spirit” (Ruach Memalela).

It is also in accordance with what is explained elsewhere regarding the verse,[28] “Mimtzo Chaftzecha V’Daber Davar,” that the source of the power of speech is drawn from the breath of the heart of Zeir Anpin.[29]

It is clearly observable that if [a person’s] heart is depressed and withdrawn [into itself] then his speech will be minimal, whereas when [his heart] spreads forth [with joy] his speech will be expansive.

לפי שכח של הדבור תלוי בהבל הקול שבלב עצמו כו’)

This is because the power of speech is dependant upon the breath of the voice in the heart itself.[30])

Now, as long as it has not been drawn forth from the breath of the heart into speech, as in,[31] “The heart did not reveal to the mouth,” then the word of the King has not yet been actualized and brought out from “nothing” to “something”, whatsoever.[32]

וכמו ואילו צדיק ורשע לא קאמר

This is similar to [the statement,[33]] “However, [HaShem] did not declare who will be righteous and who will be wicked.”[34]

This is because speech is already an actualization, as stated,[35] “For He spoke, and it was; [He commanded, and it stood fast.]” Similarly, it states,[36] “The word that issued from my mouth shall not return unfulfilled, [but it shall accomplish that which I please] etc.”

However, while [it is still] in the “heart” of Zeir Anpin it can still be overturned from Judgment (Din) to Kindness (Chessed), as in the verse,[37] “And the L-rd repented [that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him in his heart] etc.” It then states,[38] “And the L-rd said in his heart, I will not again [curse the ground any more for man’s sake] etc.”

This is the aspect of ChaGa”T[39]of the breath of the heart of Zeir Anpin that comes forth and unites with speech, which is called the revealed world, as is known. This will suffice those of understanding.

For example, this is like the Love (Ahavah) and Fear (Yirah) which transcends the aspect of the spirit of vitality (Ruach HaChayim) that is in the heart, like the essential joy and love of kindness or the essential anger and judgment of fear and trepidation.

Now, although this itself[40] has a composition of [the aspects of] fire, water and air – which are the aspects of Chessed, Gevurah and Tiferet, nevertheless it is within the inner aspect of the heart.

That is, [it refers to] the aspects of ChaGa”T[41] within which there is a radiance of the intellect. [This radiance of the intellect] is called the inner voice of Binah within Zeir Anpin,[42] which comes and is drawn from the brain to the heart.[43]

Thus, when [this intellect] is drawn forth by way of the aspect of Da’at – which is the aspect of Yisrael, which was previously explained – and causes a spiritual arousal [of the emotions] which is immediately drawn forth into the letters of thought, which is called Leah, this is what is called a unification of Yisrael and Leah.

פנימיות המדות שבלב מיד מהרהר במחשבה

This is to say, the innerness of the emotions of the heart immediately become thought about in his mind.

[For example,] should he become aroused by an intellectual [point] and reasoning for love and kindness, then this emotion and the intellect that is within it will come into [the letters of] his thoughts.

וכידוע שהמחשבה מלבשת המדות דישראל בפרטיהם

[This is so] since, as is known, the thoughts enclothe the emotions of Yisrael and their particulars.

ונקרא לאה כמו נלאה להכיל המדות כו’, ושרש לאה למעלה בבינה

[These thoughts] are called Leah (לאה), as in,[44] “Nil’ah –It is weary (נלאה) of containing the emotions.[45] The source of Leah is above in Binah.[46]

היינו לאה ילדה ששה בנים, בחי’ ו”ק דמדות דזעיר אנפין

The verse therefore states regarding Leah,[47] “I have born him six sons,” referring to the aspect of the six directions of the emotions of Zeir Anpin.

However, the unification of Yisrael and Leah refers to the intellect of Abba and Imma as it is within Zeir Anpin, which unite with the lower Leah, i.e. the [letters of] thought which receives from the aspect of Malchut of Tvunah, which is the source of thought etc.[48] This will suffice the understanding.

ויש יחוד ישראל ורחל כאשר בא הארת בחי’ פנימיות המוחין שבמדות בדבור

Now, there is also a unification of Yisrael and Rachel, which is when the radiance of the innerness of the intellect as it is in the emotions, comes into speech.

Likewise, there is a unification of Yaakov and Leah which is called “the fleeting thoughts of the heart” (Hirhurei Liba). In other words, this is when the aspect of the externality of the emotions rises up as fleeting thoughts in the brain.

וכן יש יחוד יעקב ורחל שהוא המשכת חיצוניות המדות שבלב בדבור כנ”ל

So also, there is a unification of Yaakov and Rachel, which is the drawing forth of the externality of the emotions of the heart into speech, as mentioned above.

Now, the order of the drawing forth is sometimes as follows; The aspect of the emotions of the heart rise and unify with thought, and from thought they come [down] to the externality of the heart – which is the breath of the heart – and from the breath of the heart it enters into the breath of speech, which is called the voice and speech.

ולפעמים מן המחשבה נחנס אל הדבור, וכמו שמדבר מה שחושב

At other times, thought enters speech, like a person who says what he thinks (in his intellect).

שעקבי לאה נכנסין תוך ראש רחל כו’

This is referred to as,[49] “The heels of Leah entering into the head of Rachel.”

ובשעה זו שמדבר מה שחושב הרי יוצא מקול הבל הלב בדבור בה’ מוצאות

During this time, in which he speaks what he thinks, it comes out from the voice of the breath of the heart into speech, through the five organs [of the mouth].[50]

ובודאי מה שבלבו עולה במחשבה, שאין מחשבה בלא מדות שבלב כו’

Now, certainly, what is in his heart arises into his thoughts, for there can be no thought without the emotions of the heart.

We therefore find that the aspect of Yaakov – which is the vapor and breath of the voice of the heart – functions both in thought and speech, which are called the two sisters, Leah and Rachel.

עלמא דאתכסיא ועלמא דאתגליא, מאמר סתום ומאמר פתוח כידוע וד”ל

As is known, [these two aspects are sometimes referred to as,[51]] “The concealed world – Alma D’Itkasia,” and “The revealed world – Alma D’Itgalia,”[52] [and are also referred to as,[53]] “The closed utterance – Maamar Satoom” and “The open utterance – Maamar Patuach.” This will suffice the understanding.

(In the same manner there likewise is a unification of Yisrael and Leah and a unification of Yisrael and Rachel in the innerness of the emotions, in the aspect of the aforementioned “inner voice.”

וזה שכתוב יביע אמר, ואחר כך, אין אומר, במחשבה, ואין דברים

This is the meaning of the verse,[54] “Day to day speech streams forth,” and then afterwards [in the following verse which refers to thought,] “There is no speech,” i.e. in thought, “there are no words; [their voice is unheard.]”

This [latter unification refers to the unification] during Shabbat, [at which time] the unification is in the innerness of Zeir Anpin and Nukvah, as is known, and as is explained elsewhere.[55] This will suffice the understanding.)

End of Chapter Thirty Seven

[1] Having explained the Seder Hishtalshelut-Chaining down of the worlds, down to this level, all the way from the original desire of Atzmoot Ohr Ein Sof (The essence of the infinite light) to the Ratzon HaKadoom (The Primal Desire), to Adam Kadmon (The Desire of the Desire), to Atik and Arich (The Pleasure and desire for the world of Atzilut) to Chochmah,Binah and Daat (Insight, Comprehension and Concentration of Atzilut)to Zeir Anpin (The Emotions of Atzilut) to Yesod of Zeir Anpin (as explained in the previous chapter), the Rebbe will now begin explaining the transition from the emotions (Zeir Anpin) to the faculty of speech (Malchut of Atzilut). As previously explained, “Dvar Melech Shilton-The speech of the King rules”. In other words, when a king speaks, it is tantamount to action. This is because whatever the king decrees with his mouth is immediately put into action. In the same way, the creation of the separate worlds is compared to speech, as we find in the account of the creation in the Torah, that the world was brought about through ten utterances, such as, “Let there be light”, “Let there be a firmament” etc. Accordingly, the verse states, “Malchutcha Malchut Kol Olamim-Your Kingdom is the Kingdom of all worlds”. In other words, the coming into being of the separate worlds of Briah, Yetzirah and Asiyah (Creation, Formation and Action) is dependant on the “speech” of the King (Malchut of Atzilut) to bring them about. On a more general level, even the coming into being of Adam Kadmon and the world of Atzilut is, likewise, dependent on Malchut of Ohr Ein Sof. However, it must be understood that all these levels do not have any actual existence separate and apart from G-d, whatsoever, just as, even in a human being, his desires, intellect, emotions and thought, speech and action do not at all exist as independent entities, separate and apart from him. There must be an inner, essential identity of the one who desires in order for desire to be. This essential identity is, likewise, the thinker who thinks the thoughts, the feeler who feels the feelings and the speaker who speaks the words and acts the acts. If this is the case in regard to a mere human being, then how much more so, is it in regard to the King, King of kings, The Holy One, blessed Be He. Certainly, all of existence, from the very highest spiritual level to the lowest and final level, which is our physical and lowly world, is completely bound up to the very essence of G-d, is totally sublimated to Him, and cannot exist independently of Him.

[7] As known, the three patriarchs and the four matriarchs correspond to the upper lights of Atzilut which are in an aspect of influencer and recipient. The influencer and the recipient are represented as the two G-dly names of 45 and 52 (Mah and Ban-מ”ה וב”ן). The name Mah-מ”הrepresents the giver of influence and the name Ban-ב”ןrepresents the receiver of influence. (See chapter one, note 39 and chapter 27, notes 10, 13, 15, 17 and 19. Also see chapter 29, note 16)Likewise, in the relationship of Yaakov with Leah and Rachel, Yaakov is the giver of influence whereas Leah and Rachel are the recipients. This is the matter of the two letters Hey (ה) of G-d’s four letter name about which the Torah states, “The name of the big one was Leah and the name of the little one was Rachel.” Leah corresponds to the first Hey (ה) which represents the level of “thought” and Rachel corresponds to the second Hey (ה) which represents the level of “speech”. (See Torat Chayim, Prashat VaYeitzeh, pg. 168c)

[17] This is observable in the singing voice. It is specifically a singing voice which has the “texture” of expressing a whole range of emotions and sentiments all at once, which people find most delightful. Such a voice is much more expressive and moving than a voice which can only convey a single “flat” emotion. It is specifically because it is textured by an admixture of many different sentiments, such as longing and melancholy, tempered with hope and joy, that it can touch the soul to its core in a manner that is far more delightful and memorable than a voice which is merely beautiful. (Also see Torat ChaimBereishit, 39d.)

[18] The statement here is, “When the life force enters the heart from the brain” and refers to the influx of impulses to the heart from the nervous system rather than the flow of blood entering and exiting the heart. As known, the electrical impulse of the nerves causes the heart to contract, thus pushing the blood out and with its cessation the heart relaxes, thus permitting blood to enter.

[19] This is also in accordance with the verse, “The Chayot [angels] were running and returning.” (Ezekiel 1:14) Although in this verse the word “Chayot” (חיות) refers to the Angels who are called “Chayot HaKodesh”, nonetheless, the word “Chayot” (חיות) can also be translated as “life force” or “vitality” (Chayoot).

[20] In other words, the “voice which is heard” refers to the emotions which may be perceived by the tone of the voice as it is expressed in speech etc. (See Zohar Bereishit 36a, 50b; Noach 74a; Vayera 98a; Toldot 142a, and other places etc.)

[21]Yaakov refers to the external and lower aspect of the emotions, as they are aroused from the externality of the intellect. Rachel refers to the aspect of speech, as will be explained later in the chapter. Just as the physical voice is made up of the three elements of fire, water and air (or vapor), likewise, the “breath of the heart” (Hevel HaLev) also includes these three elements, but in a more refined and spiritual form. These are the heartfelt emotions of kindness (Chessed), sternness (Gevurah) and compassion (Tiferet). This may be understood as follows: When a person is happy, the light and influence of the kindness of his heart (Chessed) spreads forth. In contrast, when he is sad, he becomes introverted and reserved. This is Gevurah, which is the lack of the spreading forth of light and influence. Tiferet, on the other hand, is an intermediary conduct which includes both Chessed and Gevurah. Now, the physical composition of the voice is affected by the emotional composition in the heart. If there is an excess of Gevurah, his voice will have much fire in it and will be dry and raspy. If there is an excess of Chessed, his voice will have much water in it and will be clear and resonant. Tiferet, which is the intermediary between them, will produce a voice which is an admixture of fire and water. According to the composition of the emotions will be the composition of the voice. Thus, it is also clear that a person’s voice reveals the admixture of his or her inner emotions. From the intonation of the voice itself, it is possible for one to hear if someone is happy, sad, angry, hurt, joyful, or worried etc. All this applies to the “external voice” (The emotions) which may be heard in the voice, and is called, “The Unification of Yaakov and Rachel. In other words, this is the unification of the external arousal of the emotions with speech.

[22] The lungs are considered to be part and parcel of the cardiovascular system.

[27] The words, “your word” in this verse refers to Malchut, which represents the faculty of speech, and the words, “the heavens” refers to Zeir Anpin, which represents the emotions of the heart, which is in the chest. As expained before, the word Shamayim-שמים (The Heavens) is a composite of two words, Eish-אש (Fire) and Mayim-מים (Water), which refer to the two primary emotions of Zeir Anpin, sternness-גבורה (Gevurah) and kindness-חסד (Chesed), as they are composed in Tiferet.

[29] The whole of the verse is, “V’Cheebadto MeAsot drachecha, Mimtzo Chaftzecha V’Daber Davar – Honor Shabbat by desisting from doing your mundane activities, from seeking your mundane needs and speaking mundane words.” However, the word “Chaftzecha – Your mundane needs” shares the same root as the word “Chafetz” which means desire. Thus, the second half of the verse, “Mimtzo Chaftzecha V’Daber Davar” can be understood to refer to the “desire to speak”. As evidenced from the continuation above (in the chapter), the desire to express oneself in speech is dependant upon the emotions of the heart. When one is depressed his speech is minimal, and the opposite is true when one is in a state of joy. This, then, is the meaning of the aforementioned statement of Etz Chaim that Keter (the desire)of Nukvah (Malchut or speech) adheres to the chest of Zeir Anpin.

[30] It is impossible to speak without the voice. Only afterwards in speech itself does the voice become divided into the letters of speech through the five organs of the mouth (as will be explained in later chapters at length). (See Ma’amarei Admor HaEmtza’ee,Vayikrah, Vol. 2 pg. 652.)

[32] This statement is referring to the fact that as long as G-d has not actually brought something out into the “speech” of Malchut of Atzilut, then actualization does not necessarily have to come about. This is because, as the verse states, “Dvar Melech Shilton-The word of the king rules” (Ecclesiastes 8:4). In other words, when G-d speaks, so to speak, this brings about an actualization. This is similar to when a king speaks. His word becomes law and is immediately put into action. However, as long as the king is only considering the matter in his heart, or even if he has already come to a decision and resolve about it in his heart, but has not yet “dictated” or “enunciated” it, then it still is not the law and no one would be culpable of rebelling against the king if they did not act upon it. This is because, “The heart did not reveal it to the mouth” (Zohar Hashmatot 253a). In other words, it was only determined in his heart and did not yet come out into an actual decree. (Also see footnote 34 and the references there.)

[34] Whether a person will be righteous or wicked is given over to his own free choice. G-d has not decreed it. Had G-d actually, “said” who would be righteous and who would be wicked, these natural tendencies would be so strongly engraved in us that it would be literally impossible to overcome them. It would, therefore, not be possible for G-d to hold us responsible or accountable for any of our deeds, whether good or evil. Thus, there would not be a purpose or “mission” for man to fulfill in the world, and there would be neither be reward nor punishment. This would go against G-d’s ultimate purpose in creating the world, since G-d desired that human beings should be free agents who can freely “choose” to serve Him or not to serve Him. (See Ma’amarei Admor HaEmtza’ee, Dvarim, Vol. 1 pg. 223. Also see Torat Chaim, Bereishit 30d, and footnote 19. Also see Torat Chaim, Bereishit 155c and on. Also see Shaarei Teshuvah 18a.)

[42] That is, the comprehension and understanding of Binah (which receives from the point of Chochmah)as it is invested in the emotions of Zeir Anpin. The matter of the investment of the light of the intellect within the emotions (and the various different ways and levels within this) has already been discussed at length in previous chapters.

[43] The Rebbe will now begin to explain the various particular unifications of Zeir Anpin and Nukvah (Yaakov and Yisrael with Leah and Rachel). Since the aspects of Yaakov and Yisrael were explained at great length in previous chapters (thirty-four and thirty-five), the general explanation should be self understood at this point. Nevertheless, the general analogue and inner intention for all of these analogies will be explained at length at the end of the chapter.

[44] See Likkutei Torah of the Arizal, End of Parshat Toldot. Also see Ma’amarei Admor HaEmtza’ee, Na”Ch, pg. 105.

[45] The reason why the level of “thought” is called Leah, which is a term that denotes weariness, may be understood by how thought occurs in a human being below. As we observe, thoughts constantly go through a person’s mind without cessation. Not a moment passes without thoughts arising. This involves everything that he desires and contemplates, even in trivial matters that have no importance, including everything that his eyes see or his ears hear. Not a moment passes without fleeting thoughts running through the mind. This even takes place during sleep in the form of dreams. Because of this, the mind has no rest and becomes weary of thoughts, which is not the case with speech. Speech is much more under the conscious control of a person and, therefore, one can go for long periods of time without speaking. (See Torat Chayim, Parashat MiKeitz, pg. 169a-170a)

[46] There reason why it is specifically thought that has this characteristic of never ceasing is because the source of thought is Binah, which is compared to a river. In other words thought is like the waters of a river which flow ceaselessly and are constantly renewed from their source in the spring, just as the tangible comprehension of Binah is constantly replenished with the intangible insights of its source in Chochmah. Because of this Chochmah and Binah are called, “Trein Rey’in D’Lo Mitparsshin-The two lovers who never separate”. (See Torat Chayim, Parashat VaYeitzeh, pg. 170a. Also see Likkutei Torah of the Arizal, Parshat Vayeitzeh, (the Sod – Mystery of Yaakov and his two wives).)

[48] It must be understood that since Leah represents the letters (or vessel) of thought, there are therefore two levels in Leah: Thefirst level is the upper Leah, which is the letters of pure thought. This is thought as it exists above the emotions. In other words, these are the letters of thought of pure intellect unconnected to emotions (but which gives rise to the emotions, as explained in previous chapters). The second level represents the letters of thought when the inner emotions of the heart are thought about in the mind. In other words, these are the letters of the thought that result from the emotions. (See Torat Chayim, Parashat YaYeitzeh, pg. 170a -171a.) The aspect of Malchut of Tevunah will be explained later at length.

[50] The five organs of the mouth are the throat, palate, tongue, teeth and lips. These are the organs that divide the voice into the particular letters of speech, as will be explained in later chapters at length.

[52] In other words, since thought is hidden in the brain, it is called the concealed world. Speech, however, is the revelation of that which is concealed. It is for this reason that the verse (Genesis 29:18) states, “And Yaakov loved Rachel,” specifically. For although Yaakov (the external emotions of the heart) makes use of both the faculties of thought (Leah) and speech (Rachel), nevertheless, the emotions of the heart desire to be expressed and drawn forth into actual revelation, in speech specifically, which is the aspect of Rachel. (See Torat Chayim, Bereishit, pg. 168b)

[55] As stated above, in note 1, this chapter begins explaining the transition from the emotions (Zeir Anpin of Atzilut) to speech (Malchut of Atzilut, which also is called Nukvah and Rachel). It was also explained there that the speech of a king is tantamount to action, because what a king decrees through speech comes about in actuality. Therefore, we see that in the Torah,the creation of the world is described in terms of G-d’s speech. However, it must be understood that there are several levels of speech, each of which indicates a different level of G-d in His relationship to His world. For example, within speech itself, there are two general levels. These two levels are called, קטנות שבדיבור-Katnoot SheBeDiboor-Diminished Intellect in Speech, which corresponds to the unification of Yaakov and Rachel, and גדלות שבדיבור-Gadloot SheBeDiboor-Expansive Intellect in Speech, which corresponds to the unification of Yisrael and Rachel. For example, the aspect of diminished intellect in speech is similar to what may be observed in a human being, that at times he will speak with a much diminished intellect. This is because his speech is completely separate and apart from the intellectual light and grasp of his mind, so much so, that he could almost be described as speaking without thinking. In other words, his Daat-Concentration, and awareness are not closely associated to his speech, to guide his words with his mind’s eye in every detail. On the contrary, he does not invest his mind and heart into what he says. Rather, he says whatever comes to his mouth, without discernment or awareness.

This is similar to a person who speaks frivolously, about things which have no actual pertinence or bearing on his life, and which, furthermore, have no particular value, in and of themselves. Certainly, when he speaks of these matters, he does not invest his heart or intellectual concentration into them, but rather says whatever comes to his lips, without deliberation. This is so much so, to the point that he almost pays no attention to the words issuing from his mouth. The reason for this is because, even in his own estimation, these matters are inconsequential and are not worth the effort of putting his heart and soul into it, to be discerning in his choice of words. Therefore, he does not choose his words according to deliberate intellectual reasoning and analysis. Still and all, his words must contain some intellect in them, for, after all, they are not totally nonsensical and he speaks them in somewhat of an orderly fashion. If they did not contain any intellect in them whatsoever; they would be without rhyme or reason and would be so far removed from normative conversation that we would consider them to be quite insane and confused.

Rather, we must say that there is a small degree of Da’at- Intellectual Concentration and lev-The Emotions of the Heart, invested into his speech, even when he speaks frivolous words. However, it is a very external and superficial investment. In other words, his mind is invested in it only in a very passing fashion, like a person whose mind is deeply occupied on an important topic, and in the middle of his studies someone reminds him about a trifling matter. On the one hand, since he considers it to be a distraction from his deep contemplation, he does not wish to concentrate on it. However, he does gloss over it briefly in his mind’s eye, even while his inner interest is still engrossed in the important topic. Now, this phenomenon is common to everyone, including even the wisest of men. When he must deal with a matter which he regards to be insignificant or superficial, then, except for a small trace of interest, he will talk about it without investing too much of his attention and concentration and without putting his whole heart into it.

Now, even though due to this small trace of intellectual interest, he does not cross the bounds of what is regarded as normative speech, such as talking total nonsense or insanity, nonetheless, to a certain degree superfluous words do fall into his speech. These excess words are called פסולת ונובלות דברים-Dross and fallout, since they contain no intellect within them and are quite unnecessary to the subject at hand, like excess chatter. As known, the tendency to chatter excessively is specifically found amongst people of light or shallow attention span and concentration (דעת קל-Da’at Kal). However, people who have a greater ability to concentrate (Da’at) will be more deliberate in their words and will try to speak only those words which are necessary to the subject, without deviating and going off on tangents. What causes these superfluous words is lack of attention and intellectual investment when speaking. Nonetheless, in a person of great wisdom, even the dross and excess which falls into his speech when he talks about mundane matters will not be as superfluous as the words of a person who is not wise. This is in accordance with the Talmudic statement that we can learn even from the mundane conversations of the sages. In other words, even when they speak about mundane matters we can recognize the wisdom of their words, and though they themselves regard these words as being superfluous, nonetheless, to a person of lesser wisdom they contain great meaning and insight. This is because the mundane words of a sage contain greater wisdom than the well thought out words of an average person.

Now, the above level of speech (in other words, Katnoot SheBeDiboor-Diminished Intellect in Speech, which corresponds to the unification of Yaakov and Rachel), is analogous to the level of interest and investment that G-d puts into the ten utterances by which the world is created. Since G-d absolutely transcends the world and is the only True Being whose existence is intrinsic to Him, therefore, in and of Himself, He has no actual need to create the world, altogether. He creates it because He chooses to rather than because He must. This means that as far as He is concerned, the entire existence of the world and even of the ten utterances which bring everything into being, is quite mundane and superfluous, and He invests very little of Himself into it. However, from our angle, the creative power of these ten utterances is so enormous and beyond our comprehension that we cannot even begin to fathom the incredible depth and greatness of their power and importance.

Now, the second level of speech is Gadloot SheBeDiboor-Expansive Intellect in Speech, which corresponds to the unification of Yisrael and Rachel. This is similar to when a person speaks words of wisdom or very great and important matters or if he has to speak before a king, a judge or a great sage. Under such circumstances he will weigh his words carefully in his mind’s eye, with great concentration of his heart and mind. He will scrutinize exactly how to speak, taking great care that none of his words go against his ultimate purpose and that one part of what he says does not contradict another part. He will also be careful that no superfluous words, which have no bearing on the subject, pass his lips.

Now, certainly, the intellectual scrutiny which he invests in his speech must come from a much higher level than the specific concepts which he expresses. In other words, it comes from the depth of the power of intellect-Koach HaMaskil, as it exists in and of itself. This is the power to conceptualize all concepts and reveal them from their state of concealment. Likewise, it is the source of the ability to scrutinize one’s words so that they express the depth of the concept.

Additionally, this ability to scrutinize becomes invested in his speech in a way of close connection and bonding. In other words, the power to conceptualize, bonds with all the specifics of his speech. When this is the case, he will speak with great exactitude. All his words will be very clear and in accordance with the depth of the concept. Not one word will be superfluous. We, therefore, find that his speech actually ascends and becomes attached to the very source of intellect. Thus, his intellect comes into his speech with an absolute bond.

Now, this phenomenon is literally the opposite of the above mentioned level of diminished intellect in speech. There, no intellectual investment and scrutiny takes place altogether. On the contrary, the speech is separate and apart from the intellect and the intellect only radiates in a very superficial and hidden fashion. Furthermore, its source in the intellect is only the external thought of the intellect, rather than the inner essence of the intellect. The opposite is true of words of wisdom and important matters. Here, the essential light of the intellect bonds with his speech, to guide all his words with great scrutiny, so that there is clarity in the expression of his thoughts. Furthermore, there will be no excess words.

Because of this, his words will be as brief as possible, so as not to deviate from the point. (However, sometimes it is impossible to express a deep concept without lengthy explanations. This is the aspect of the Yesod of the Male, which is called, “Lashon Limoodim-The Tongue of Instruction”. However, even in these lengthy explanations there are no superfluous words. On the contrary, the lengthier the explanation of more and more details of the concept, the clearer the concept becomes. His lengthiness is, therefore, purposeful, because the ultimate point of the concept had not yet been clarified by his earlier statements. The purpose of the latter statements is to complete what was missing in the earlier statements.)

Now, what was said above concerning the two levels of speech as they exist in man is analogous to G-d’s “Speech” in His relationship with His world. As known, the aspect of “Diminished Intellect in Speech,” (The unification of Yaakov and Rachel) is called “The six “mundane” days of the week” and is the aspect of the combination of the many letters and words which branch out of the ten creative utterances of G-d’s upper speech. This is understood from such verses as, “The heavens were created by the word of HaShem” and “The word of the King rules” etc. In this level of “Speech”, the intellect invested in the combinations of letters and words is extremely diminished. This is because the principal purpose of these combinations is to bring about the creation of something out of nothing. As explained above, relative to G-d’s essential light, in other words, from His point of view, so to speak, this is very superfluous and insignificant. Therefore, relative to Him it is called, “Millin D’Hedyota-Mundane matters” (מילין דהדיוטא). This is similar to a great sage when he speaks of mundane matters.

Now, as mentioned above, superfluous and excessive words “fall out” from this type of speech. These are the lowest combinations of letters of the world of Asiyah from which the “Seventy Genies” of the nations (Shiv’im Sarim) receive their influence. In other words they come about because of the tremendous diminishment of the G-dly intellect in the speech that creates them. They only receive in an aspect of a tiny trace element (Reshimu) and a “glossing over” of the attention (Ha’avara B’Alma). Since this is considered to be like the “dross” (Novlot) of speech, therefore the external forces (Kelipot-Shells) receive the life force from there.

However, this only applies to the “fallout” of this level of speech. The higher combinations of the unification of Yaakov and Rachel, which are not completely superfluous and are, therefore, not yet like “dross”, remain unaffected by the external forces of Klipah (The shells), as the verse states, “I will not give of my Glory to another”. This is because as long as there is a radiance of the intellect of Chochmah-Insight, even if it is only a tiny glimmer, it is not given over “to another”, in other words, it is not given over to the Sitra Achera (The Other Side, i.e. the side of evil) from which the Kelipot-Shells receive their sustenance.

This level of the speech of G-d applies to the six mundane days of the week which correspond to the six millennia of “This World-Olam HaZeh. However, such is not the case in regard to the holy day of Shabbat, which corresponds to “The World to Come-Olam HaBa and is called, “Yom SheKooloh Shabbat-An era which is all Shabbat”. On Shabbat, Malchut ascends to a higher level of perfection. In other words, the faculty of speech ascends from a state of diminished intellect in speech (The unification of Yaakov and Rachel) to a state of expanded intellect in speech (The unification of Yisrael and Rachel). This is the second above mentioned level in which speech issues forth with the utmost intellectual scrutiny.

This is because in regard to Shabbat it states, “It is not the way of the King to be preoccupied with mundane matters-לאו אורחא דמלכא לאשתעי במילין דהדיוטא. The “mundane matters” referred to here are the ten utterances by which the world was created. As stated above, relative to G-d these ten utterances are mundane and superfluous to His existence. This, then, is the meaning of the verse, in Isaiah 58:13 that during the day of Shabbat one should desist from, “Seeking his mundane needs and speaking mundane words”. It is specifically then that the essential power of insight (Chochmah), which is higher than revealed intellect, strongly connects and bonds with speech.

Therefore, on Shabbat speech ascends to the inner light of Abba (Chochmah-insight) of Atzilut as it is invested in Zeir Anpin (The emotions) of Atzilut. This is called the expanded intellect of Abba in Zeir Anpin. Because of this strong bond between the intellect and speech, therefore, there are no excess superfluous “words”. Therefore, the Kelipot and the Sitra Achera do not receive any sustenance whatsoever. This is why it states in regard to Shabbat, “Kol Dinin Mitabrin Minah-All judgments are removed from her.” This is also why it states about the World to come (Isaiah 35:8), “Bilah HaMavet LaNetzach-Death will be swallowed up forever.” (See Pirush HaMeelot pp. 37b-40a.)